Chinese Crested
Breed Summary
The Chinese Crested Dog is a hairless breed of dog. A toy dog, fine-boned, elegant, and graceful. The distinct varieties are born in the same litter. The Hairless with hair only on the head, tail, and feet and the Powderpuff, completely covered with hair. They give an alert, intense expression, and their eyes are almond-shaped, set wide apart. Their ears are uncropped large and erect. The breed serves as a loving companion, playful and entertaining.
Country of Origin: China
AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 79 of 196
AKC Classification: Toy group
UKC Classification: Companion Dog
Exercise Requirements: < 20 minutes/day
Height: Female: 11 in.; Male: 13 in.
Weight: Female: 5-12 lbs.; Male: 5-12 lbs.
Physical traits: Hairless, Medium-sized, Well-balanced
Coat: Length: Hairless: Long on head, feet and tail/Powderpuff: Long
Characteristics: Straight
Colors: Any color permissible
Overall Grooming Needs: High
Personality traits/Temperament: Affectionate, Alert, Lively
Energy Level: Average
Tendency to Drool: Low
Tendency to Snore: Low
Tendency to Bark: Low
Tendency to Dig: Low
Social/Attention Needs: High
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
Health
Chinese Crested are a healthy breed. Their life expectancy is 13 to 18 years. Epilepsy occurs in the breed occasionally. Patellar luxation (slipped stifles) affects Crested, as it does most small breeds. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease has no DNA test to screen parents, but it does sometimes show up on X-ray. Some dogs can develop itchy skin conditions where baths with a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner is recommended. Flea control is also essential. A responsible breeder consistently screens their breeding stock for inherited eye problems that occur in the Chinese Crested, including progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and primary lens luxation.
Nutrition
The Chinese Crested dog depends on high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared. Add a high-quality dog multivitamin to complete the nutritional circle. Provide a diet according to the different stages of a dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so monitor your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Don’t give human foods that are not safe for them. Consult with your veterinarian for further advice.
Training
The Chinese Crested loves to spend time with his owner. They are a great candidate for competitive sports such as agility, flyball, and obedience, and they make brilliant therapy dogs. They also enjoy and do well at lure coursing. They have a very sensitive nature and must be trained with gentle patience. Harsh words and negative actions on your part can damage your relationship to where he will not be interested in learning further from you.
Exercise
The exercise needs of the Chinese Crested can usually be satisfied with daily short walks with their owner and play-sessions in his backyard. It is good for the Crested to exercise outdoors, but care must be taken to use either sunscreen or place protective clothing on him. Use paw balm daily to protect their feet. These are tough little dogs who can be very competitive in canine sports.
Fun Fact
Chinese crested dogs accompanied Chinese sailors on their many voyages during the 14th century.
References
1. American Kennel Club. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.akc.org/
2. Dog Breeds | Hill’s Pet. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/breeds
3. List of Dog Breeds | Petfinder. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/
4. All Dog Breeds - Complete List of Dog Profiles. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/profiles
5. Dog Breeds | Types of Dogs | Purina. [accessed 2020 Nov 28]. https://www.purina.com/dogs/dog-breeds
